While fancy shopping malls are popping up in Bangkok like mushrooms in the rainy season, we still look to escape to enjoy the charms of traditional markets outside Bangkok. Here are six easily reached old markets that give you a more authentic shopping experience. 

The annual film festival by the Delegations of the European Union to Thailand returns at SF World Cinema (7/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-268-8888) from May 23-Jun 5. The program selects 20 films from 14 EU member countries to screen for free. The festival then goes on to Chiang Mai (Jun 13-22) and Khon Kaen (Jun 27-29). Screenings are in original language, with Thai and English subtitles. Highlights include:

Despite the coup and despite the curfew (10pm-5am), there are still a host of exciting events taking place this weekend. Art takes refuge in hotel rooms, the big white BACC hosts an outdoor festival and Japanese artists perform above a 7-Eleven. (All details correct at time of publishing, but liable to change--check with organizers).

Revisit a few old favorites refreshing their menus.

Art aficionados rejoice! Bangkok's biggest cultural festival is back. 

Watch all the trailers.

Hot on the heels of International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia on May 17, here are six upcoming Bangkok events celebrating sexual and gender diversity, from plays to indie parties, starting this Friday (May 23).

It's not only big indie gigs popping up everywhere this weekend, but also an exhibition by an award-winning photographer and a Sunday charity art market. All you have to do is turn up.